Uber Launches In Taipei, Just Two Days After Debuting In Seoul

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Uber is moving forward with its Asian expansion at a quick pace with the start of limited service in Taipei, just two days after it launched in Seoul. The premium taxi calling app is currently in stealth mode in Taiwan’s capital, which means that there are a limited number of cars available while Uber fine tunes its service. Uber is still looking for a full-time general manager to oversee it’s Taipei business.

The San Francisco-based startup now operates in three Asian cities, six months after it first launched in the region with the beginning of service in Singapore.

Like its fares in Singapore and Seoul, Uber charges a premium over regular taxi cabs in Taipei for its luxury car services. Base fare starts at NT$126, compared to NT$70 for regular Taipei taxis. Each additional kilometer costs NT$30, compared to NT$20 for standard taxis.

In Taipei, Uber faces competition from taxi services like Taiwan Taxi, which charges standard taxi fares and which not only has its own smartphone app, but can also be hailed through phone or at a kiosk in any of the city’s ubiquitous 7-Elevens. It’s also extremely easy to hail down cabs by the side of the road, even during rush hour.

On the other hand, Uber’s high-end sedans and SUVs, which seat up to four people, may offer an attractive alternative for people who want to travel in style or in larger groups.

Based on Uber’s recent job postings, it will continue its Asia expansion at a quick pace. SGE Insights recently spotted ads looking for personnel in Seoul and Taipei, as well as cities that Uber has yet to enter, including Shanghai, Beijing, Hong Kong, Bangalore and Auckland.